The Appeal and Global Development of Paddle Tennis

The history of padel tennis traces back to the late 19th century, evolving from a game played on aristocratic estates into a popular sport that gradually gained worldwide appeal. Known as padel, this sport ingeniously blends the technical elements of tennis, squash, table tennis, and badminton, played on specially designed enclosed courts. Padel courts feature flexible surface materials, accommodating porous concrete, cement, wood, artificial turf, or any other surface providing consistent ball rebound.
1. Origins and Development
Padel courts measure 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width. Compared to tennis courts, the minimum height requirement is 6 meters. The net height is set at 88 centimeters. The distance from the net to the baseline is 6.95 meters, with the center line positioned 5 meters from the edge on each side of the court's square. Tempered glass serves as a protective barrier at the court's base, while metal netting encloses the perimeter for safety. Additionally, the specialized paddle used in play is a crucial piece of equipment.
2. Overview of Basic Rules
Matches are played as best-of-five sets. The rules and scoring system are compact and suspenseful, differing from traditional tennis to offer richer tactical choices. The ruleset of paddle tennis is both unique and strategic. After understanding the characteristics of the ball used, we further explore the rule framework of this sport.
2.1 Court Layout and Serving Rules
Different court dimensions apply for doubles and singles matches. Serving requires specific positioning and techniques, with rules emphasizing continuity and strategic play. In Paddle Tennis, doubles matches utilize the full court space, while singles matches are confined to a designated area measuring 6 meters wide by 20 meters long. When serving, players must stand behind the service line and deliver the ball diagonally across to the opponent's court. The serve must be executed below waist height, employing an underhand technique.
The Global Development of Paddle Tennis
1. Worldwide Promotion
Paddle tennis originated in Acapulco, Mexico, in 1969, initially gaining popularity in Spanish-speaking countries like Spain, Mexico, Andorra, and Argentina. Today, however, the sport is rapidly expanding across Europe and other continents. Paddle tennis gained popularity in Europe and Hispanic nations, achieving international recognition in the early 21st century. To standardize and advance the sport, the Paddle Tennis Professional Tour was established.
2. Development in China
Paddle tennis was introduced to China in 2016. Through the establishment of tournaments and associations, it rapidly gained popularity domestically and joined the international federation. By October 2019, the China Tennis Association took a historic step by formally joining the International Paddle Tennis Federation, solidifying a strong foundation for the sport's international development in China. Currently, paddle tennis is widely played in 78 countries worldwide.
Tennis Insights and Reflections
1. Kei Nishikori and COVID-19
Kei Nishikori's COVID-19 diagnosis casts a shadow over North American tournaments, sparking discussions about athlete health and event safety. Nishikori tested positive for COVID-19 while training in the United States, news that undoubtedly casts a shadow over upcoming North American tournaments.
2. Tournament Prospects and Player Choices
Faced with the allure of prize money and health risks, players find themselves in a dilemma when deciding whether to compete, with health concerns taking precedence. When considering tournament participation, we must weigh the pros and cons. As newly crowned tournament champion Simona Halep candidly stated, she prioritizes physical well-being over prize money and honors.